Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for International Students 2025

Dreaming of studying in Germany without the financial burden? You’re not alone. Germany has become a top destination for international students thanks to its world-class education, globally recognized universities, and generous scholarship opportunities.

This year, a wide range of fully funded scholarships in Germany are available, covering tuition, monthly stipends, health insurance, travel allowances, and sometimes even language courses. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD, this guide reveals the best scholarships and how to apply for them.

Let’s dive into the top government-funded, university-sponsored, and subject-specific scholarships available for international students.

Top Fully Funded Government Scholarships in Germany

Germany offers several prestigious government scholarships to attract bright minds from all over the world. These programs are designed to support academic and professional growth while strengthening international cooperation.

Here are the most prominent government-backed scholarships in Germany:

1. DAAD Scholarships (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst)

The DAAD is Germany’s largest scholarship provider and funds over 100,000 international students every year.

🔹 Key Programs:

• EPOS Scholarships: For development-related postgraduate courses.

• Helmut-Schmidt Programme: For future leaders in politics and society.

• RISE Germany: Summer internships for undergraduates in STEM.

🔹 What’s Covered:

• Full tuition fees

• €934 monthly stipend (Master’s) / €1,200 (PhD)

• Health insurance

• Travel allowance

• Language course (if required)

🔹 Who Can Apply:

• Graduates from developing and emerging countries

• Strong academic background

• Relevant work or volunteer experience (for some programs)

🔗 Learn more about DAAD EPOS and apply

2. Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)

The Deutschlandstipendium is a merit-based scholarship open to both German and international students. It is co-funded by the German government and private sponsors.

🔹 Benefits:

• €300/month for at least two semesters

• Networking events and mentorship opportunities

🔹 Who Can Apply:

• Outstanding academic performers

• Students with leadership, social, or volunteer experience

🔹 Note:

Each university manages its application process, so deadlines and requirements vary.

🔗 Find your university’s application portal here

3. Erasmus+ Scholarships (EU-Backed Program)

Although run by the European Union, Erasmus+ scholarships support international students studying in Germany as part of exchange programs or full-degree joint master’s courses.

🔹 What’s Covered:

• Monthly stipend (varies by country)

• Travel costs

• Insurance

🔹 Best For:

• Students in joint programs between German and EU universities

• Students looking for short-term exchange or internships in Germany

🔗 Explore Erasmus+ opportunities

Fully Funded University-Specific Scholarships in Germany

Beyond government-funded options, many German universities offer their own fully funded scholarships tailored to international students. These programs often cover tuition, living expenses, and research costs.

Here are some top universities in Germany offering scholarships this year:

1. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarships

Aimed at students who demonstrate both academic excellence and a strong commitment to social justice.

🔹 Coverage:

• Monthly stipend of €934

• Health insurance

• Family and child allowance (if applicable)

• Tuition (if required)

🔹 Eligibility:

• International students studying in Germany

• Good academic record

• Active in voluntary work or community service

🔗 Visit official website

2. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships

This foundation provides scholarships to about 1,000 undergraduates, graduates, and doctoral students from all fields annually.

🔹 Benefits:

• Up to €934/month + travel and research allowance

• Support for study or research projects

🔹 Requirements:

• Demonstrated commitment to sustainability, democracy, or human rights

• High academic merit

🔗 Apply here

3. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarships

Offered to future leaders from developing countries who plan to contribute to their home countries after studying.

🔹 Scholarship Inclusions:

• €934 monthly stipend (Master’s)

• Research allowance

• Language course fees

🔹 Special Note:

• Open to students in political science, law, economics, journalism, or similar fields

🔗 More info on KAS Scholarships

4. University of Stuttgart—MIPLC Scholarships

Offered in collaboration with DAAD for the Munich Intellectual Property Law Center.

🔹 Includes:

• Tuition waiver

• Monthly DAAD stipend

• Travel cost, insurance, and study material allowance

🔗 Check MIPLC/DAAD options

How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany

If you’re aiming to study in Germany for free, a strong application is key. Here’s how to boost your chances:

1. Prepare Core Documents

Most applications require:

• Academic transcripts (translated if not in English/German)

• CV (in Europass format)

• Motivation Letter/Statement of Purpose

• Letters of recommendation

• Proof of English or German proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/TestDaF)

2. Start Early

Many top scholarships close from October to February for the next academic year. Some open as early as June 2025 for the 2026 intake.

3. Tailor Your Motivation Letter

Your letter should:

• Show why you chose Germany

• Explain your field of interest and plans

• Reflect on how the scholarship aligns with your goals

4. Use the University/DAAD Portals

Applications are typically submitted through

• The DAAD Portal (for DAAD and related programs)

• Uni-assist.de (for general university admissions)

• Individual university websites

Scholarships by Level and Field of Study

Undergraduate Scholarships in Germany

• Most fully funded scholarships at the undergraduate level are rare but available through private foundations (e.g., ESMT, Deutschlandstipendium).

Master’s Scholarships

• DAAD EPOS, the Heinrich Böll Foundation, and KAS are ideal options.

PhD Scholarships

• Look for DAAD Research Grants

• German Research Foundation (DFG)

• University-funded PhD positions (paid as staff)

Scholarships by Field

Can I study in Germany without IELTS?

Yes, if your previous education was in English or if your university accepts alternative proof like Duolingo or medium-of-instruction letters.

Do scholarships cover family expenses?

Some DAAD and foundation scholarships offer family or child allowances, especially at the postgraduate level.

Are Nigerian, Indian, Kenyan, or Ghanaian students eligible?

Absolutely. Most scholarships are open to developing country students, and countries like Nigeria, India, Kenya, and Ghana are often prioritized in development-focused programs.

Conclusion

Germany remains one of the best destinations for free education in the world. With the right strategy, documentation, and timing, you can secure a fully funded scholarship to support your dreams.

Bookmark this page, share it with your peers, and start preparing now

Related Content

• Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
• Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
• What to Do If You Don’t Win a Scholarship: 9 Powerful Next Steps
• Top Engineering Scholarships for International Students